Bailey Street encampment: District says it’s ‘limited’ in response

The District of Squamish says it is constrained in how it can respond to public safety concerns surrounding an encampment on private land near Bailey Street, pointing to provincial jurisdiction over housing and health care services and the legal complexity of addressing homelessness.

In a letter responding to resident Patrick Henry, who recently raised alarm over incidents near the Eaglewind and Parkhouse neighbourhoods, District officials acknowledged community concerns but emphasized the limits of municipal authority.

Pascale St-Louis, General Manager of Public Safety, called it a complex situation. “At present, municipal governments are limited in how they can address the problem.”

Henry had detailed rock-throwing incidents, a fire, and other disturbances linked to encampments on the land. In response, the District confirmed that Squamish Fire Rescue attended a fire at the site on October 23, 2024, and subsequently worked with the landowner to clean up debris and reduce fire risk.

“The property owner did do some clean-up of that location, though we understand that there are still other encampments at that location and ongoing engagement with the property owner is required,” the letter stated.

According to the District, the landowner was advised to consult with Environmental Services before conducting any vegetation removal but has not followed up. The site is privately owned and included in a proposed development called the “Village on Bailey St.”

The District also said it is working with the RCMP and social service agencies to manage the situation. Police have been asked to increase patrols in the area, and outreach is being conducted through the Car 99 program — a partnership that connects police and mental health professionals to individuals in crisis. “The RCMP… are in contact with occupants at that site through their Car99 program to try and provide social supports and mental health resources,” St-Louis wrote.

District officials said the broader issues driving encampment growth — including the toxic drug crisis and lack of supportive housing — fall under provincial responsibility, but that local efforts continue in coordination with the Province and community partners.

“Encampments are sadly not unique to Squamish and are challenging Local Governments across the Province,” the letter said. “We continue to work with the Province and our community partners to advocate for increased access to housing and healthcare services.”

Since January 27, the property owner has engaged with District Planning and Environmental staff to provide a Preliminary Wildfire Assessment Report and notice of vegetation management.

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